John Michael Herkenhoff age 67 of White Bear Lake, MN. Born on February 28, 1954, to Bernard and Loretta (Lange) Herkenhoff. John grew up on a dairy farm in St. Rose, Minnesota. He went to Melrose High School, where he was a well-liked student who was voted Homecoming King his senior year. John played high school football and was an all-conference player in both his junior and senior years. He also played high school basketball, where his team was state champion his junior year and runner-up his senior year.
John received an athletic scholarship to play football at St. John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota. As a freshman, he started on both sides of the ball as an offensive guard and defensive end. During John's senior year he was a team captain, received the all-conference player award, and all-district award. John also contributed to winning three conference championships during his collegiate career.
John met his future wife, Katherine Ann Jung, who went to the next-door St. Benedict’s during his time at St. John's. They were married on June 25, 1977, in Crookston, Minnesota.
John was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to so many. He was a devout Catholic who was known for being a good, constant, and reliable man and who was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it.
He enjoyed traveling, especially his three pilgrimages to Medjugorje. Another favorite pastime was spending time on their new pontoon cruising around White Bear Lake. By far, however, his favorite new pastime was his new role as Grandpa to his two-year-old grandson Avon.
Preceded in death by his parents, sister Joan Herkenhoff, father-in-law Dr. Frank Jung, and brother-in-law David Jung. Survived by his wife Katherine; children Benjamin (Kelly) Herkenhoff and Angela Herkenhoff; grandson Avon John Samuel; siblings Pat Beste, Duane (Linda), Matt (Dawn), Bernie (Diane), MaryKay (Dick Loso) Herkenhoff, Michelle (Glen) Schmidt, and Mike (MaryKay).
A Mass of Christian Burial to Celebrate his Life will be at 11 AM on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH 3878 Highland Avenue, White Bear Lake, Minnesota. Visitation and Rosary will begin at 10 AM. A lunch will follow Mass at the church.
There will be an opportunity to share memories during lunch. The funeral mass will be live-streamed and available to view for 24 hours after the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Mary's Meals.